Civil Rights Law Pathway

What Civil Rights Lawyers Do

Help clients enforce or defend against claims that civil rights have been violated, in areas such as free speech, free exercise of religion, voting, and non-discrimination in employment or housing

Represent individuals, classes of individuals, federal, state and local governments, businesses and employers

Navigate civil rights statutes, regulations, the Constitution and extensive case law in controversial social contexts

Practice in non-profit agencies; law firms, including many small and solo firms representing individuals, and large firms that do significant pro bono work or defend businesses; and government agencies enforcing civil rights laws

Who Might Enjoy This Specialty?

You might enjoy practicing civil rights law if you are:

Comfortable helping clients subject to discrimination or accusations of wrong-doing

At ease with statistical evidence and expert witnesses, for discrimination claims

Patient with claims that may take years to resolve

Passionate about protecting civil rights

Eager to advise businesses on best practices regarding compliance with civil rights laws